By Hannah McNamara

The LNP recently announced a $20 Million Mackay Bucasia Road / Golf Links Road intersection upgrade, if elected on the 26th of October.

Jarrod Bleijie Deputy Leader of the Opposition said, “Traffic congestion is a big issue in the Mackay region… that’s why I’m so excited to announce that if the LNP is elected on the 26th of October, we will be investing $20 million into the Mackay Bucasia Road intersection upgrade.”

It comes after countless complaints from locals travelling in and out of the Northern Beaches suburbs with demands for change, given the lengthily duration of traffic build up in peak times such as school and work hours.

With future plans to build an additional 4,600 homes in the next decade within the Mackay region, about 60 per cent of those lots will be built in the Northern Beaches and surrounding areas.

LNP representatives stood with Mayor Greg Williamson, agreeing that it’s absolutely crucial to amend the congested traffic conditions before the additional houses are built. Not only will this upgrade benefit residents, but it will also have a significant impact on first responders who will then be able to reach patients quicker than ever in an emergency.

Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson was quick to say, “Hallelujah!

“We’ve been advocating for an upgrade to the Mackay Bucasia Road for the last decade and this is the first time where someone is willing to commit.

“We’ve got 4,600 approved lots in the whole of the Mackay region, but about 60 per cent of those are in the Northern Beaches.

“That’s a few thousand homes,” Mayor Williamson remarked.

“These 20 million dollars will go a long way, and as a resident in this region who wants to live where most of the houses we know in the next ten years are going to be built - in the Northern Suburbs - we have to have a trunk infrastructure that allows good traffic flow.”

Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP said, “As a resident and former deputy mayor speaking to those here on the ground that live in this community - whether you’re at Blacks Beach, Shoal Point, Bucasia, Rural View or here at Kerrisdale - Mackay Bucasia Road has been a major issue for quite some time.

“A short 6-kilometre journey can take up to 45 minutes and that is unacceptable,” Ms Camm said.

LNP Candidate for Mackay Nigel Dalton agreed, saying, “There are too many hours spent in a car when it’s not necessary.

“We need to make sure this intersection is appropriate for the volume of traffic coming through here and that’s what the LNP government will do.”

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(Left to right) Deputy Mayor Karen May, Mayor Greg Williamson, Jarrod Bleijie Deputy Leader of the Opposition, Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP and LNP candidate for Mackay Nigel Dalton. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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In memory of the beloved Mackay figure Mr. Brenden Borellini, a retrospective exhibition showcasing his impressive photography work is open this month at Crossroad Arts. The event honours Borellini, who was not only an Artist in Residence but also a cherished ambassador for the local community.

The opening night took place on Friday, September 20, from 6pm to 8pm at Crossroad Arts, located at 55 Wood St, Mackay. Guests enjoyed light snacks and drinks while viewing over a decade's worth of Borellini’s stunning photography.

The exhibition will remain open for public viewing from September 20 to October 25, Monday through Friday, from 9am to 5pm. Additionally, each evening during the exhibition, a slideshow of the displayed works will be projected on the front windows from 5pm to 8pm, allowing the community to celebrate Borellini’s legacy.

What: Brenden Borellini Retrospective Exhibition
When: Open until October 25
Time: 6pm-8pm
Where: Crossroad Arts, 55 Wood St, Mackay 
RSVP access requirements to admin@crossroadarts.com.au

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Earlier this week, on Monday, October 1, Queensland officially entered 'caretaker mode' ahead of the state election set for October 26. From this point until the election results are determined, the government is subject to several restrictions under caretaker conventions.
With the election campaign now officially underway, Queensland Premier Steven Miles kicked off his re-election bid by highlighting his government's introduction of 50c public transport fares. On Tuesday morning, he rode a bus to Government House to meet Governor Jeannette Young and formally launch the 26-day campaign. Following this, Miles flew to Townsville and later arrived in Mackay to support local Labor candidates at their candidacy launch at the Souths Suburban Bowls Club, followed by a big energy announcement made at the Resources Centre of Excellence. Meanwhile, Opposition Leader David Crisafulli had already set his sights on the key battleground of Cairns, making his way there on Monday, quickly announcing $10B worth of election promises within the early stages of the campaign. With Whitsunday identified as a key seat for One Nation, Pauline Hanson also spent time in Mackay at a dinner for candidate, Julie Hall.
Here in Mackay, Greater Whitsunday Communities (GWC) is urging candidates and party leaders to prioritise key regional issues as part of their election commitments, outlined in a comprehensive strategic advocacy document released this week.
The document, titled Building Foundations for Growth and Wellbeing in Greater Whitsunday, highlights critical community concerns exacerbated by the ongoing housing crisis and rising cost-of-living pressures. These challenges are fuelling serious social issues, including mental health struggles and youth disengagement, across the Mackay, Isaac, and Whitsunday regions.
GWC’s Executive Officer, Carol Norris, emphasised the need for immediate action, noting the significant impact of rising costs on the region.
"GWC has outlined a set of priorities that need immediate attention, and we are calling on candidates in our region, as well as party leadership, to commit funding and resources to solutions that will make a real difference," Ms. Norris said.
She pointed out that while the effects of these issues are often discussed in relation to capital cities, they are even more pronounced in regional communities.
"We are seeing people who can’t afford the basics and are struggling to put a roof, or even a room, over their heads," she added.
Although the Queensland Government's Greater Whitsundays Regional Transformation Strategy 2024 aims to guide the region toward an ambitious net-zero target by 2050, Ms. Norris expressed concern that the strategy does not adequately address the soft social infrastructure needed to support this transformation.
"Yes, we can build hospitals and schools, but where are the people going to come from?" she asked.
"We know that if our doctors, nurses, teachers, daycare workers, care workers, retail workers, and council workers feel they’re moving to a region where they can access affordable housing, where their little ones can attend daycare, where there are decent sports and recreation facilities, and where they can navigate critical health services, they are more likely to stay in the region."
Ms. Norris stressed that a healthy, thriving population is essential to the success of the Regional Transformation Strategy and any efforts to ensure the ongoing resilience of the Greater Whitsunday region.
"A healthy, thriving population will underpin the success of the Regional Transformation Strategy or any efforts to ensure the ongoing resilience of the Greater Whitsunday region," she stated.
Without proactive measures to address soft social infrastructure, including housing, mental health, and youth disengagement, the challenges facing the community will continue to escalate.
"This cannot continue," Ms. Norris warned, calling for urgent action from government leaders.
Key Advocacy Priorities outlined in the Building Foundations for Growth and Wellbeing in Greater Whitsunday document include:
Housing: Tackling the severe housing shortage impacting our communities.
Youth: Bolstering support for youth, with a focus on mental health, education, and employment opportunities.
Mental Health: Expanding support for accessible and innovative community mental health initiatives to address high rates of mental distress and suicide.
Integrated Sustainability: Advocating for sustainable economic, social, and environmental development practices to ensure the region’s long-term prosperity.
These priorities reflect GWC’s ongoing engagement with local communities, which has shaped the organisation’s focus areas.
The advocacy efforts align with the broader objectives of the Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) Greater Possibilities for Greater Whitsunday and Queensland 2024 Queensland State Election priorities, calling for significant investments in roads, housing, and State Development Areas to unlock substantial regional growth.
“As we approach a pivotal election, it’s crucial to advocate for the nuanced needs of the Greater Whitsunday region.
“Our advocacy, grounded in active community engagement, presents the critical voices of the Greater Whitsunday communities and their priorities. We sincerely hope all political candidates will consider these essential regional needs."
In the lead-up to the Queensland state election, we posed a series of critical questions to the candidates of Mackay and Mirani, giving them a platform to share their policies and address the issues most important to the community. Their responses provide valuable insight into their plans for tackling local concerns such as housing affordability, infrastructure development, and job creation. These are the matters that will shape our region's future, and we encourage residents to review what each candidate has to offer.
For those interested in the perspectives of candidates from neighbouring electorates, we’ve also covered the Whitsunday candidates in the flip side of this publication, Whitsunday Life, and Burdekin candidates in Burdekin Life, which is available online.
Unfortunately, due to a miscommunication, we were unable to receive responses from Labor’s Mirani candidate Susan Teder before going to print. However, we will publish her answers in next week’s edition, ensuring her voice is included in this vital conversation.

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Tell us about yourself and what qualifies you for this role?

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I’m a fifth-generation Mackay local, a second-term Councillor, and was elected as the Deputy Mayor in April 2024. Prior to Council, I was the Manager of Mackay Funerals for almost 8 years, an after-hours Support Worker at the domestic violence shelter for 9 years, and the Service Manager at Mackay Women’s Centre for 4 years. I’ve also held roles in financial services, real estate, IT, and retail, and been a small business owner. I have dedicated my life to the community of Mackay and want to continue as your local Member of Parliament.

If you could initiate a project or address one issue in the region – what would it be and how you would go about it?

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At present, access to suitable housing is an issue, so I’d work with all levels of Government to come up with further solutions. Construction is already underway on 7 x 1-bedroom units, and the Miles Labor Government has committed to building 27 modular homes in the Mackay and Whitsunday region. Labor is doing what matters for Queenslanders here in Mackay by building social and affordable housing.
Labor has implemented measures to assist private renters through Rent Connect, and delivered a mobile housing office to assist people experiencing homelessness or at risk of it.

What do you think the people most want now and how would you give it to them?

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When I’m out there talking to the Mackay community, what they are telling me is they want cost-of-living relief. The current Miles Labor Government is delivering cost of living measures, including $1,000 off electricity bills, 50c fares for all Translink services, 20% off vehicle registration, Free TAFE, and Free Kindy for all 4-year-olds.
Mackay needs a representative who is embedded in the local community and has a proven track record of delivering for this region – I am that person.

Tell us what your first 100 days would look like if you were successful in your election bid?

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I will get to work on advocating for my community, as I have always done. This includes delivering on our fully-costed election commitments and building on what has already been started. I will stand up for the Labor values of fairness, equality, and social justice, and ensure that our region receives its fair share.
My first 100 days will be about listening, collaborating, and taking decisive actions that reflect the needs of our community.

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Tell us about yourself and what qualifies you for this role?

As a sixth-generation farmer, the bush runs through my veins. Running a business and managing budgets in the face of rising costs has given me firsthand experience of the challenges many locals face. As a long-serving volunteer rural firefighter, I’m passionate about safeguarding our rural way of life in Central Queensland. I believe my background and dedication make me well-qualified to represent our regional community and fight to get our fair share.
 
If you could initiate a project or address one issue in the region – what would it be and how you would go about it?

The roads in regional Queensland have been ignored for nearly 10 years and need urgent fixing. Chronic underfunding by Labor has left the Bruce Highway between Rockhampton and Mackay poorly maintained with no forward planning to fix it. An LNP Government will prioritise vital safety improvements to drive down the road toll and increase maintenance programs on rural and regional roads.
  
What do you think the people most want now and how would you give it to them?

Every day, more Mirani locals share their struggles with the rising cost of living. Rent, groceries, mortgage repayments, and fuel costs continue to soar. The LNP will address this by delivering reliable, affordable power, implementing housing supply solutions to lower rent, and ending budget blowouts. Regional Queenslanders also deserve first-class healthcare. The LNP will put doctors and nurses back in charge, provide more beds and resources to regional hospitals, and use real-time data to drive improvements.
 
Tell us what your first 100 days would look like if you were successful in your election bid?

An LNP Government will scrap the Pioneer-Burdekin Pumped Hydro and give concerned community members some relief this Christmas. This project has no environmental approvals, no business case, and no community acceptance. The LNP will also tackle the out-of-control youth crime crisis that is driving up insurance costs. By the end of the year, we will introduce the Making Queensland Safer Laws that will restore consequences for actions and remove detention as a last resort from the Youth Justice Act.

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Tell us about yourself and what qualifies you for this role?

I am a wife, mother of 5 and local small business owner. I have worked across many industries, battled financially and also succeeded.  I am an everyday person that understands real world and local issues, not a career politician
 
If you could initiate a project or address one issue in the region – what would it be and how you would go about it?

Whilst our region has many issues, the one that comes to the forefront of most peoples minds in Youth Crime.  As a victim of crime myself, we need harsher penalties, boot camp style rehabilitation for at risk youth and greater support for the victims of crime.

There are many diverse communities within your electorate, how would you ensure each was served fairly?

As far as I am concerned, everyone is equal and therefore everyone deserves the opportunity to be heard. If elected, I will represent the people fairly and address issues on a case by case basis
 
What do you think the people most want now and how would you give it to them?

Harsher penalties for youth offenders, a stable power supply using the resources we have in this country and this region so as we can reduce the cost of living, a working health system that offers the same services of the south east by incentivising health workers into the regions.
 
Tell us what your first 100 days would look like if you were successful in your election bid?

Training and getting settled into our roles, and then addressing the regions concerns via town hall style meetings and taking these concerns to advocate for Mackay in parliament
  

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Tell us about yourself and what qualifies you for this role?

I’m a former police officer who has spent the past 22 years working in Mackay, mainly in crime prevention. I retired earlier this year and I’m looking for the next challenge. I’ve spent most of my time working with young people, on projects to teach safety and prevent crime.  However I also have many other community connections with seniors, men’s, church and sporting groups. I am ready, willing and able to keep serving this community.

 If you could initiate a project or address one issue in the region – what would it be and how you would go about it?

I am passionate about crime prevention measures which connect people and support families and children. I would love to see our school-based police officer positions filled within our region. This is a senior constable who deals directly with issues like bullying, assaults, cyber issues. I know the value of early interaction with a uniformed police officer in a school; it’s invaluable. I’d also love to see Neighbourhood Watch groups supported by a police officer as this helps build relationships with community and police.

 
What do you think the people most want now and how would you give it to them?

The thing that I have been hearing over and over again is that people want to see a reduction in crime. They also don’t want to live in fear of potentially being a victim of crime. They want to feel safe in their communities and especially within their homes. This will be addressed by the LNP’s plan to introduce tough youth justice laws – adult time for adult crime.

 
Tell us what your first 100 days would look like if you were successful in your election bid?

My focus will be on ensuring that promises are kept and commitments are fulfilled. These include commitments I’ve made as an LNP candidate to support Mackay Hockey build an indoor hockey facility and ensure sporting groups like AFL Saints can play under lights and out of the sun. I will also be working as part of a team to see changes to youth justice laws, improvements to our health services and the delivery of more social housing solutions. 

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Tell us about yourself and what qualifies you for this role?

Apart from having already served two terms as the Member for Mirani, I have a deep connection to this region, which I believe, uniquely qualifies me for the role.  
Not only was I born and raised in the region, but so were my parents, grandparents and great grandparents.
So regardless of what happens on the 26th, I will remain an active and committed member of the Mirani community, which I love dearly.  How many other candidates can say the same?

If you could initiate a project or address one issue in the region – what would it be and how you would go about it?

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The main issue I would address is the staggering number of renewables projects being rolled out across the region, with no genuine community consultation.  
I would impose an immediate ‘moratorium’ on any new renewable projects, pending a comprehensive cost-benefit study into the cumulative impacts that existing projects will have on the region’s towns, communities and environment.
I would also completely ban wind turbines being installed in any of the pristine areas along our Ranges, forests and prime agricultural lands.
 
What do you think the people most want now and how would you give it to them?

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I think what ‘the people’ want most now, is to be listened to, and for the actions and policies of government to be made more responsive to the ‘will of the people’.
Currently they are not.
I would strengthen the parliamentary petition process, to include a state referendum trigger on controversial issues.  I would also repeal all state restrictions on free speech and other core freedoms and push for a Royal Commission into the handling of the pandemic.
 
Tell us what your first 100 days would look like if you were successful in your election bid?

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Within my first 100 days, I will be advocating for the reform or repeal of the state’s recent anti-vilification legislation to restore freedom of speech and religion in Queensland as soon as possible.
I will also be calling for measures to fight inflation by cutting red tape, limiting government spending, tackling government debt, releasing more land for housing, supporting small and family businesses, ending the war on farmers, slashing state-based taxes, removing renewable energy subsidies and strengthening private property rights.

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Thirty new Habitat Reef (HR) modules have been installed in Mackay’s coastal waters, marking a significant milestone in the region’s efforts to restore marine biodiversity. As part of the Mackay Whitsunday Turning Rubble into Reef project, led by Reef Catchments, the initiative is set to revitalise fish habitats and boost the health of local ecosystems.
The HR modules have been purpose-built, divided into two clusters to create vertical structure in otherwise bare marine areas. These concrete structures will serve as fish habitats, providing refuge for a variety of marine life. Designed with a roughened exterior surface, the modules are also specifically crafted to encourage the settlement of marine invertebrates such as coral recruits.
Over time, these structures will offer a foundation for vibrant and diverse reef communities.
Reef Catchments Project Officer, Kellie Best, expressed enthusiasm for their expected performance, saying, “The installation of the HR modules is just the beginning.
“I, for one, cannot wait to observe the marine life they will attract.”
With the support of North Queensland Bulk Ports (NQBP), monitoring of the Habitat Reef modules will commence over the next 12 months.  NQBP Senior Manager Sustainability and Environment Kevin Kane said NQBP were pleased to extend their extensive monitoring program to include the new HR modules.
“Over the last few years NQBP has been working with James Cook University to investigate the unique biodiversity value offered by artificial habitats like coastal infrastructure,” Mr Kane said.
“Integrating the principles of working-with-nature in designing future port infrastructure is at the heart of this research and the reef modules project offers a rare opportunity to record the establishment of new marine habitats close to a working port,” he said.
Reef Catchments CEO, Katrina Dent, emphasised Reef Catchment’s ongoing dedication to sustain and improve our region’s marine ecosystems, stating, “This initiative is an important contribution toward improving fish habitats and building reef resilience in our local waters.
“In support, Reef Catchments will uphold a 30-year commitment to monitoring the performance of the HR models.”
In a win for local recreational fishers, the HR modules have the potential to create, over time, an environment that supports fresh opportunities for anglers to enjoy their favourite pastime.
Mackay Councillor Alison Jones said the HR modules would have a positive impact on recreational fishing and local industries.
“These reef modules have so much potential for improving the accessibility and health of our inshore fishery,” Cr Jones said.
“Not only will they help to spread existing fishing pressure out over a greater area, but they will also give visiting anglers an excellent starting point when towing their boats to our region,” she said.
“If visitors have more areas they can easily access and fish – they’ll stay longer, and there will be flow-on benefits to our local marine industries and accommodation providers.”
For more information: www.reefcatchments.com.au

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Installed Habitat Reef Module. Photo credit: Catchment Solutions
Loading of Habitat Reef Module at Port of Mackay with Reef Catchments Project Officer, Kellie Best. Photos supplied

This week
Season to date
Cane crushed
62,079
666,380
Average bin weight
3.96
3.89
CCS
14.80
13.74
Cane variety performance for region
Variety
%
CCS
Variety
%
CCS
Q183
27.1
15.20
Q253
22.0
14.34
Q240
6.9
14.65
SRA9
11.1
15.17
Q208
17.6
15.18
SRA21
1.4
14.75
KQ228
3.7
14.15
Q138
1.7
14.43
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Comments:
Plane Creek Mill processed just over 62,000 tonnes of cane for the week, bringing the season total to just over 666,000 tonnes.
Average CCS rose by 0.18 of a unit over the previous week, closing out at 14.80 units. The year-to-date average is now sitting at 13.74 units.
Standover cane made up eight per cent of the week’s cane supply.
Wilmar commends the efforts of growers and harvesting operators for the pleasing bin weights and cane quality this season.
The highest CCS honour for the week was a rake of Q183 plant cane from the Koumala productivity area with a CCS of 17.20 units.
It’s pleasing that no incidents were reported around our rail network during the recent Queensland school holidays and long weekend.
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Lindsay Wheeler
Cane Supply Manager
Plane Creek Region

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Running a successful farming business in the arid regions of Queensland is tough and maximising the productivity of your land is essential. Nobody knows this like rural business owners Nichole James and Jake and Adam Fietz.
Nichole, Jake and Adam are participating in a field trial being delivered by Central Highlands Regional Resources Use Planning Cooperative (CHRRUP) as part of the Future Drought Fund (FDF) Drought Resilient Soils and Landscapes program. The project aims to demonstrate drought resilient grazing practices that can rehydrate grazing landscapes and improve soils and water on farms. This supports building drought resilience by enhancing total biomass, reducing erosion and contributing to increased productivity of grazing enterprises.
Nichole’s property is one of five included in the project. Glenn Landsberg, a Regeneration Consultant, has been working with Nichole to modify her farm landscape for better water retention, particularly focusing on the restoration of gullies.
“Recovery here isn't really going to happen until we intervene and make something happen,” Glenn said.
After working with Glenn and employing earthworks to retain water across her property, Nichole has also implemented smaller fenced paddocks and rotational grazing to allow soil and pasture to rest and recover.
“Now we’ve done earthworks, it'll help make it recover quicker and slow the erosion,” Nichole said.
“Now that I've split the paddock, I can control the grazing pressure even more.
“With these earthworks, which will also help with slowing the water, we should see a much bigger recovery in a much shorter time,” says Nichole.
At ‘Hiddenvale’ in Queensland, Jake and Adam’s property is also part of the project and already is seeing results through effective water management, which reduces soil erosion and surface run-off.
“The drought over the last 10 years has just knocked us about,” Jake said.
“It's just mind blowing how much it has actually knocked us around, just so much destruction. I don't want to ever be in a nasty situation again where we have to destock.
“If we have to destock again, we’d have to sell the place basically.”
Adam added, “Our property was all deeply eroded, lots of dead trees and a lot of water run-off.
“We used the dead trees and wind-rowed them up, slowed the water run-off. That caught some seed.
“I've got them about 80 metres apart all the way up and it's all grass now. It stopped a lot of the erosion which is always a good thing.”

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Nichole James
Glenn Landsberg shows where the soil height used to be on Nichole’s property

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By Sonia Ball
QCAR Central District Manager

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There is change in the air with the establishment and continued growth of Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR) in all cane growing regions across Queensland and into New South Wales.
It’s an exciting change for sugarcane farmers with regional QCAR district committees operating in the Herbert River Region, but also right here at home in the Central District (Proserpine, Mackay and Plane Creek) and of course the Burdekin.
Last week the Central District Committee underwent some changes indicative of the proactiveness and flexibility of the growers on the regional QCAR teams.
Former chairman of the Central District Committee (CDC) Chris Punzell, on the eve of moving into the role of president of AgForce Cane Limited (ACL), has officially stepped down from his position as chairman of the CDC.
Chris said he is intending to focus on his new role while maintaining his position as Director on the QCAR Board, as well as continuing as a CDC committee member and supporting the new chairman.
Stepping up to fill the role of chairman is committee member Steve McKeering, who also is a Director on the QCAR Board.
Steve said he is looking forward to leading the strategic direction of the Central District while maintaining the good work that Chris Punzell had begun in the Central District’s mill supply areas.
Deputy chairman Steve Fordyce will retain this position on the committee.
The QCAR CDC also welcomed new CDC committee member grower Blair Watt. Blair attended the September meeting as an observer, was nominated and accepted the position.
The CDC is supported by Central District Manager Sonia Ball and growers are encouraged to make contact to find out more about the organisation and the regional QCAR teams.

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Former Central District Committee chairman Chris Punzell is taking on a new direction and focus as president elect of AgForce Cane Limited (ACL)
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Newly nominated and accepted Steve McKeering has taken on the position of chairman of the Central District Committee. Photos supplied

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North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) has successfully completed maintenance dredging at the Port of Hay Point, including Half Tide Tug Harbour.

NQBP would like to commend all staff and contractors for their work during the project.

Around 163,000m 3 of natural sediment was removed from the Port of Hay Point and the Half Tide Tug Harbour and placed at the approved Dredge Material Placement Area (DMPA).

NQBP would also like to thank the Hay Point community for their patience and understanding during the project.

The TSHD Brisbane undertook 152 trips to and from the DMPA without incident.

This is a testament to all involved including the local Hay Point fishing and boating community.

Throughout the dredging, NQBP engaged with key stakeholders including the Hay Point Technical Advisory and Consultative Committee (TACC). Members of the TACC include conservation groups, Traditional Owners, scientists, community, port users, and Commonwealth and State Governments.

The dredging was undertaken in line with the Queensland Government Maintenance Dredging Strategy for Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area Ports and adhered to all approvals and permits, including a range of strict environmental conditions.

Environmental monitoring and management measures were implemented throughout the campaign to minimise the risk of any potential impacts on the marine environment.

During the project, maintenance work at the Half Tide Tug harbour public boat ramp was also completed on behalf of the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR).

NQBP has managed the maintenance dredging program at the Port of Hay Point for more than 20 years.

The Port of Hay Point is one of the largest steel-making coal export facilities in the world and its operations are of tremendous benefit to Queenslanders, supporting thousands of jobs and enabling tens of billions of dollars in export value.

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Dredge vessel TSHD Brisbane has now left the Port of Hay Point. Photo supplied

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Two experienced leaders in mine safety have been appointed to key positions by the state government in an effort to make mining a safer workplace industry.
Heidi Roberts has been appointed as the Commissioner for Resources Safety and Health and Rob Djukic is now CEO of the independent health and safety regulator Resources Safety and Health Queensland.
Resources and Critical Minerals Minister Scott Stewart congratulated Ms Roberts and Mr Djukic in their new appointments.
“Heidi Roberts brings a wide range of experience to the vital position which will work across the resources industry to ensure safety is everyone’s top priority,” Minister Stewart said.
“Ms Roberts also helped lead reform in relation response to Black Lung disease in coal mine workers.
“I would also like to congratulate Mr Djukic who has been with RSHQ since it was established in 2020.
“I know the wealth of experience and knowledge he will bring to this role now and into the future.
“In Mr Djukic’s former role as RSHQ’s Chief Operating Officer, he has overseen key milestones including the regulator’s response to the Coal Mining Board of Inquiry and the development and passage of the Resources Safety and Health Legislation Amendment Act 2024.
“The health and safety of all workers is paramount for the state government.
“Queensland now has the toughest mine safety and health laws in the world - including an offence of industrial manslaughter.
“That’s because we have implemented the most substantial suite of reforms to mine safety and health in 20 years.
Commissioner for Resources Safety and Health Heidi Roberts said she was thrilled to accept the role.
“I look forward to continuing to drive the culture of best practice and productive dialogue between industry, worker representative groups, subject matter experts and the Regulator, so that resource workers in Queensland can enjoy the strongest protections in safety and health.”
Resources Safety and Health Queensland CEO Rob Djukic added, “I strongly believe in RSHQ’s vision and purpose, and know we have an excellent team to deliver our important work. I am excited and honoured to officially accept the CEO role in a substantive capacity”
“I believe that clear communication, fairness and respect for persons are core to protecting safety and health and being an effective regulator – and these will continue being key focus areas of my leadership.”

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The Bowen Basin mining region has seen remarkable progress in promoting gender diversity and empowering women within the industry. Traditionally dominated by men, the mining sector is undergoing a significant shift, with women stepping into leadership roles, operational positions and technical careers. 

An industry-leading approach to diversity and inclusion has resulted in national recognition for Anglo American at the prestigious 2024 Women in Resources National Awards in Canberra.

The Inclusion and Diversity Champion in Resources national award went to Workplace Support Manager Kanae Dyas who has pioneered a program dedicated to supporting our women while committing to zero tolerance of bullying, sexual harassment or discrimination.

“Kanae has won this award for her exceptional commitment to fostering inclusion, diversity, and equity within the resources sector,” Minerals Council of Australia said.

“Kanae’s leadership in developing impactful programs has set a new standard for cultural and gender safety in the industry.”

Anglo American took out both awards at the 2024 QRC/WIMARQ Resources Awards for Women in Queensland on International Women’s Day in March. These wins qualified them for the national awards.

Ms Dyas said the resources industry had made significant progress because it had the maturity to see the value in diversity and inclusion.

“We need safe, inclusive, and equitable spaces for women to thrive; career development and progression opportunities; increased leadership and executive roles for women to inform, drive and sustain change; and to close the gender pay gap,” she said.

Head of People, Capability and Organisation Ben Mansour, also at the Canberra event, said this recognition came off the back of a concerted effort to increase the number of females in leadership positions across the company’s steelmaking coal operations.

He said diverse teams were more productive, innovative and creative.

“We set ourselves a task to create an innovative, inclusive and diverse people strategy that helped us create an equitable organisation for every employee,” he said.

“We created an environment where employees could easily connect with accessible mentors to propel their career goals. This has not only benefitted our female workforce but also a diverse range of employees from differing backgrounds.

“We designed a forward-thinking strategy to bring women into non-traditional technical and
operational roles by building talent pipelines from graduate, apprenticeship and trainee programs.

“This has allowed the organisation to achieve an elevation of merit-based appointment of women into leadership roles, ensuring informed decision-making and equal representation at every stage.

“It’s just the start, but we are committed to driving a values-based culture where talent knows no gender and where every individual is given the opportunity to thrive.”

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Anglo American Workplace Support Manager Kanae Dyas won the Inclusion and Diversity Champion in Resources award at the 2024 Women in Resources National Awards in Canberra. She is pictured with Simon Trott from Rio Tinto, which sponsored the award.

Pictured are Head of People, Capability and Organisation Ben Mansour (right)
with team members Sandra Thomson and Brendan Storer. Photos supplied

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